The differences between general pathology and dermatopathology matter to your health.

Dermatopathologist: a specialist in diagnosing the pathology of skin biopsies under the microscope.

A dermatopathologist is the most qualified physician to precisely diagnose the pathology of skin conditions.

What is a Dermatopathologist?

A dermatopathologist is a highly trained physician with specialized knowledge and training in diagnosing skin disorders through a microscope. Their expertise combines dermatology (diagnosing and treating skin conditions) with pathology, which involves identifying disorders by looking through a microscope. Dermatopathologists work in a lab, but their work requires more than running tests. They collaborate with your dermatologist to understand your individual case, taking all information into account to determine a diagnosis and in some cases assist your doctor on a treatment plan.

What is general pathology vs. dermatopathology?

A general pathologist looks at tissue from all types of the body under a microscope. Only a fraction of what they see is skin.

Dermatopathologists only look at skin biopsies under a microscope. In many cases, the dermatopathologist consults directly with your dermatologist to discuss your medical history as they examine for skin samples under a microscope. They analyze all available information to develop a precise diagnosis and help guide your doctor to develop the proper treatment plan.

At DermPro, our doctors are certified in both dermatology and dermatopathology, making them the highest-level experts in skin disorders.

The additional training required to achieve this status enables our physicians to distinguish between similar conditions and identify a precise diagnosis. We also work closely with your dermatologist on treatment options to help your doctor provide the care you deserve. And we treat all patients as our own, pursuing the highest level of care and compassion.

Who reads my skin biopsies?

Typically, your biopsy is sent to a general pathology laboratory where it is examined by a general pathologist, trained in the pathology of different body areas. But if your dermatologist suspects a skin disease like melanoma or other conditions, your best chance for an accurate diagnosis is for your doctor to work exclusively and directly with a dermatopathologist. They understand at a deeper level the pathology of skin conditions.

For peace of mind, request a dermatopathologist.

You want confidence in knowing that everything possible was done to determine a diagnosis. Having an accurate diagnosis enables your dermatologist to give you a better treatment plan. You deserve to have the best possible care and have peace of mind about your health, quickly and accurately.

So, we encourage you talk with your dermatologist about who reads your skin biopsies—and to request a dermatopathologist.

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